Disturbances surrounding two Irish Premiership games last weekend have been condemned by the Police Service of Northern Ireland [PSNI], the Northern Ireland Football League [NIFL] and the Irish Football Association [Irish FA].
The incidents, which “resulted in serious injuries requiring hospital treatment” according to the PSNI, took place round Cliftonville’s 4-2 home victory over Larne on Friday and Linfield’s 3-0 defeat of Coleraine on Saturday.
Advertisement
After Friday’s game, it is reported a male was struck by an object on Cliftonville Drive – which leads to Solitude – and required hospital treatment.
On Saturday, a disturbance between two groups in the Donegall Avenue area of south Belfast – close to Windsor Park – left three men requiring hospital treatment.
This followed on from clashes between fans before they met at the Coleraine Showgrounds earlier this season.
“This behaviour is unacceptable,” said PSNI lead superintendent Chris Hamill.
“The vast majority of fans attend matches to support their clubs and enjoy a day out with family and friends. Those intent on causing disruption and disorder undermine that experience.
Advertisement
“Anyone engaging in criminal activity should be aware that their actions can have serious consequences.”
NIFL chief executive Gerard Lawlor also criticised the incidents, saying: “We condemn all forms of violence, disorder and antisocial behaviour associated with football. We urge all supporters to show respect for one another.”
IFA chief operating officer Graham Fitzgerald insists “all supporters should feel safe travelling to and from matches” and will continue to work closely with football and statutory partners “to promote a safe and welcoming environment for everyone attending matches”.
Disclaimer : This story is auto aggregated by a computer programme and has not been created or edited by DOWNTHENEWS. Publisher: Sports.yahoo.com
